AN ARTISTIC TRADITION
For
years the youth of Nkoma nurtured a unique heritage of weaving and fine art. A centuries old tradition, these equisetic handmade
crafts were an essential thread in the fabric of a peaceful nation. In the aftermath of the 2002 Lord’s Resistance Army
(L.R.A) attack in the Eastern Region, Nkoma’s youth reclaimed this art form to show the entire world what how a displaced
person suffers to get a meal and other basic needs.
“In
the aftermath of the LRA attack Nkoma’s youth began to rebuild with strength and resilience”
FIGHTING POVERTY
Determined
to build a nation that is poverty free, a small group of youth overcame their despair and together formed the Nkoma Christian
youth association. Drawing strength from their common history and artistic heritage, they worked with women who were experts
in weaving and begun weaving basket, mats, table runners, and placemats. The youth who had more strength in fine art embarked
so much on making greeting cards and wall hangings.
Providing
more providing more than financial stability and fighting unemployment, the sale of art crafts has given youth an active role
in the healing and reconciliation of their country.
The
Nkoma Christian Youth Association organized ten artists and five weavers in Mbale district. Reinterpreting the traditional
Ugandan designs and cultural motives with bright energetic colors. The Nkoma Christian youth association art celebrates the
future, while honoring the past.
Now
in once-traumatized communities across the country under abject poverty, we are now trying our level best to make sure that
Uganda is country where poverty prevails no more. The
Nkoma’s mission to fight poverty is a major step
in the establishment of viable, sustainable and environmentally friendly exports business. And perhaps even more importantly
reconnects the victims of the L.R.A’s 19-year-old war, especially the youth of the war to the world community. Providing
both economic stability and the chance to create an environment of peace and reconciliation, the sale of fighting poverty
among the poor art pieces will change the future of Uganda and change the lives of its 25 million people.
“The
African goat lady”
This
shows the hardships an African woman goes through to get a day’s meal; this is a cultural and difficult way of life
for the Ugandan women who are living under abject poverty.
“ The proceeds from the sale of one greeting card can support
an entire family for a day”
“Batik Wall hangings”
A
wall hanging made out of batiks for decorating the interior wall of the house but with the African cultural motives meant
to promote African culture. “Help us help our selves by buying this product”.
“The greeting cards”.
Truly
unique works of art each card is entirely made by hand and draws heavily on culture, traditions and country side Uganda. A
land full of hardships and poverty.
Stories
inspired
Inspired
by a Ugandan tradition of sending greetings and other messages, this card is perfect for holding your warmest greetings to
your friends and families.
“The role played by funding
for all will remain at the fore minds of all Ugandans”
